Egypt FM, Chinese envoy coordinate on regional stability as Cairo warns of ‘total chaos’

2026-03-17 - 18:51

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty met with Chinese special envoy Zhai Jun on Tuesday to coordinate on regional stability, warning that current military escalations and “unjustified” Iranian attacks could slide the Middle East into “totalchaos.” During the talks in Cairo, Abdelatty expressed Egypt’s full solidarity with Gulf states and Jordan, stating that any violation of Arab sovereignty constitutes a direct threat to Egyptian and Arab national security. The meeting, part of Zhai’s regional tour, focused on de-escalating tensions and prioritising diplomatic dialogue. Abdelatty stressed to the Chinese envoy that regional conflict must not divert attention from the “humanitarian catastrophe” in Gaza. He called for the immediate empowerment of the National Committee for Gaza Management to oversee the transitional phase until the Palestinian Authority can assume full responsibility for the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. On the issue of water security, Abdelatty reaffirmed to Zhai that the Nile is a “lifeline” for Egypt amid “acute water scarcity.” He “categorically rejected” any unilateral actions on the transboundary river, insisting on cooperation based on international law. The ministers also discussed the “remarkable development” in bilateral relations as the two nations celebrate 70 years of diplomatic ties. Abdelatty sought an increase in Chinese investment to support the “localisation of industry,” technology transfer, and the strengthening of industrial supply chains. Zhai Jun praised Egypt’s “pivotal role” in supporting regional security and stability. He commended Cairo’s ongoing efforts to push for political settlements to conflicts across the Middle East.